Chennai, 25 July (H.S.):
Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) founder Dr S. Ramadoss on Saturday announced his retirement from active politics on his 88th birthday, formally handing over the party's political leadership to his son and PMK president Dr Anbumani Ramadoss.
The announcement was made during a birthday function at Ramadoss' Thaiyur Estate near Tindivanam, where Anbumani visited his father to seek his blessings. The event assumed added significance as it marked the first major public appearance of the father and son together after months of internal differences that had fuelled speculation over the party's future.
Addressing party workers, Ramadoss said he was stepping away from politics permanently and would no longer involve himself in the party's affairs.
“From today, I will not speak about politics or interfere in political matters. Anbumani will hereafter lead the party's political activities. I will continue to meet those who come to see me, but I request everyone not to discuss politics with me,” he said, drawing loud applause from party cadres.
The announcement comes after a prolonged leadership tussle between Ramadoss and Anbumani over the party's organisational structure and decision-making, which had led to the emergence of rival camps within the PMK. The public disagreement had sparked concerns over the future of the Vanniyar-based party, with repeated calls from senior leaders and supporters for reconciliation.
Saturday's event is being widely viewed as a symbolic transition of leadership aimed at restoring unity within the party ahead of future political challenges.
Leaders from various political parties conveyed birthday greetings to Dr Ramadoss, acknowledging his contribution to Tamil Nadu politics and his role in building the PMK into a prominent regional political force.
With his decision to retire after more than four decades in public life, Ramadoss closes a significant chapter in the state's political history while signalling the beginning of a new phase under Anbumani Ramadoss' leadership.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
